Imagine a velvety, rich soup that captures the essence of sun-ripened tomatoes and fragrant basil, transforming ordinary ingredients into a culinary masterpiece in just 40 minutes. This Italian-inspired Tomato Basil Soup is not just a recipe; it's a warm embrace on a chilly day, a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to a rustic kitchen in Tuscany. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this foolproof recipe promises restaurant-quality results that will impress your family and friends.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the garlic's aromatic flavors.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, vegetable broth, and sugar. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to slightly thicken.
- Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a standard blender in batches.
- Stir in fresh chopped basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup seems too thick, add a little more vegetable broth to reach desired consistency.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls. Optional: Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use ripe, high-quality canned tomatoes or fresh tomatoes at peak season for the most vibrant flavor.
- Sauté Slowly: Take your time caramelizing the onions and garlic. This builds a deep, rich flavor base for your soup.
- Blending Technique: When pureeing, use an immersion blender for convenience or a standard blender for extra smoothness. If using a standard blender, work in small batches and remove the center lid cap to prevent pressure buildup.
- Consistency is Key: Adjust the soup's thickness by adding more vegetable broth if it's too thick. The ideal consistency should be smooth and slightly creamy.
- Fresh Basil Matters: Add fresh basil at the end of cooking to preserve its bright, aromatic flavor. Avoid overcooking the herbs.
- Serving Suggestions: Elevate your soup with garnishes like a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh basil, or a dollop of cream. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance and reheat gently before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 100kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
